In summary, we have combined data and techniques from the areas of environmental physics and cancer epidemiology to explore the hypothesis that spatial environmental factors can induce changes in melatonin rhythms, which can lead to increases in breast cancer rates. The results are interpreted as evidence that temperatures can modulate cancer via changes induced in melatonin rhythms. The study provides a valuable reference information for clinicians and health administrators, as well as baseline for more detailed studies of patient survival for individual environmental/geographical sites. The earlier the cancer is detected, the smaller the chance that it already has spread beyond the limited primary focus. This implies that the extend of intervention needed is lesser and the prognosis improved.

Map-based exploration of georefrenced health statistics will lead to a better understanding of health/environment interaction. By utilizing Geographical Information System technology we can enhance our ability to manage, estimate and predict breast cancer distribution.